SLCD: Example

Non-Violence, the Appropriate and Effective Response to Human Conflicts

Author & Title

Relevant Comments by HH The Dalai Lama Subsequent to the Sept. 11, 2001 Terrorist Attack on the US

Thesis

Ultimately only nonviolence can contain terrorism. Problems within human society should be solved in a humanitarian way, for which nonviolence provides the proper approach

Arguments

1) Terrorism cannot be overcome by use of force because it does not address the complex underlying problems and can exacerbate them and frequently leaves destruction and suffering in its wake. Mahatma Gandhi pointed out that because violence inevitably leads to more violence, if we are seriously interested in peace, we must seek to achieve it through peaceful and non-violent means.

2) Problems must be discussed with a calm mind, applying nonviolent principles and keeping in view the long-term safety of the world

Solutions

1) Long-term measures need to be taken to root out the problem of terrorism such as determining the factors that breed and give rise to terrorism

2) At times the intervention of private individuals or non-governmental organizations can prove very effective in resolving certain kinds of conflicts in the world. (private individuals, peacemakers related non-governmental organizations and those who are considered terrorists)

Solutions (continued)

3) Leaders need to be alert, far-sighted and decisive. Conflicts occur as a result of causes and conditions, many of which are within the control of leaders. It is our leaders’ responsibility to decide when to act and when to practise restraint. We must recognize this and understand that in order to solve a problem completely we must act in accordance with reality

4) The proper way of resolving differences is through dialogue, compromise and negotiations, through human understanding and humility.

We need to appreciate that genuine peace comes about through mutual understanding, respect and trust

5) Unhappy events are brought about by negative emotions. Ultimately the answer to whether we can create a more peaceful world lies in our motivation and in the kind of emotions and attitudes we foster in ourselves.

Discussion Question

What is the central message from the Dalai Lama’s writing? What things do you agree with? What things do you disagree with?

Are humans inherently violent?

Do humans resort to violence more often than they practice non-violence (in dealing with conflict)?

Is it realistic or practical to solve issues through non-violence? Why or why not?

When is violence useful or justified? What is the advantage of using aggressive or violence to respond to conflict.

What are the disadvantages of using violence?

Do you feel that the United States was justified in their response to 9-11? What could alternative responses have been?

Give examples of cases where principles and approaches of non-violence have worked in history. Why aren’t these examples applied more in world conflicts?

The Dalai Lama stated, “Events of this kind make clear that if we allow our human intelligence to be guided and controlled by negative emotions like hatred, the consequences are disastrous.”

Name some events in history where people or countries have retaliated to violent events with further negative emotions. Were these justified? Could a non-violence approach be taken in these cases? Why or why not.

Did 9-11 give the global community an opportunity to understand terrorism?

Do we as a world understand what fuels terrorism? If so, why can’t it be eliminated?

How objective can we be when discussing terrorism since our lives have been relatively untouched (directly) by terrorism?

The Dalai Lama stated, “I feel that a compassionate concern for the well-being of others - not simply for oneself - is the sole justification for the use of force”. What is your response to this?